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Boise staff outline plans for Boise Depot 100th‑anniversary celebration April 13–16, 2025
Summary
Parks and Recreation described a four‑day, free public celebration at the Boise Depot with tours, a new history exhibit, nightly animated facade projections, artist posters and merchandise that will support restoration. Staff outlined logistical plans including shuttles, Spanish tours, oral history collection and a hoped‑for Union Pacific train
Boise Parks and Recreation staff briefed the council on plans for the Boise Depot’s 100th‑anniversary celebration set for April 13–16, 2025, the same date the depot opened in 1925.
Bonnie Shelton, communications and marketing superintendent for Parks and Recreation, said the event’s goal is to “celebrate the history of this iconic Boise landmark, provide opportunities for all community members to enjoy and experience the Boise Depot,” and make the celebration free and accessible. Shelton described a four‑night program that will combine family activities, docent tours, art and history programming, and a themed evening birthday celebration on April 16.
Staff plan to debut a new history exhibit assembled by the Department of Arts and History, commission commemorative poster art by local artists (one example by Julia Green was shown), and install an animated projection on the depot facade by two local artists who gathered community input at a recent Open Streets event. Shelton said merchandise and pins will be offered and that proceeds will support depot restoration and promotion.
Shelton described the daily program: Sunday as family day with food trucks, model trains and open tours; Monday focused on depot tours and a quieter visitor experience; Tuesday centered on arts and history programming and possible live podcast taping; and Wednesday the 100th birthday evening event with live music, a themed 1920s program, activation of on‑site food and beverage services and a commemorative cake. Staff plan to operate shuttle service from Anne Morrison Park, coordinate pedestrian connections, and publish a parking and shuttle plan to minimize congestion and ensure safe access. Shelton said staff are planning Spanish‑language tours and additional translation services.
Shelton said staff have solicited oral histories and community memories for use in social media and for the city archives; she noted the city has requested a Union Pacific train visit for the centennial but is still awaiting confirmation. Shelton said past events that included a train visit drew large crowds (staff cited about 8,000 people for a previous train visit).
Council members expressed strong support for the exhibit, the animated projection and the public‑facing programming. Shelton said event details will continue to be refined and that staff will post updates on the city’s centennial webpage.
No formal council action was requested or taken at the presentation.
